Well she's not a member of the Royal family just yet, only a few weeks to go, but Meghan Markle just demonstrated how to successfully put an occasion wear outfit together by sticking to the basics. Whilst Meghan uses the services of a stylist you don't need to; if you're ever in doubt about what to wear to a more formal function whether it be for a Christening, Race day or other event that has a more polished dress code then be inspired by her look and keep it simple!

On her first official event alongside the Queen, the Commonwealth Day service held at Westminster Abbey, her outfit was elegant and demure, with a below the knee hem length and arms covered up in a stylish ensemble. She chose British designers Amanda Wakeley for her Frock Coat and dress and Stephen Jones for her hat. Classic Heritage brand Mulberry for her bag, and Spanish Cordwainer Manolo Blahnik for her navy heels.

So here are my three inspiration tips that we can take from this Princess in waiting. Of course she's a beautiful lady with the worlds press inches away but the winning formula is there for us all to follow. ​

1) Less is more: Take a leaf out of Meghan's style here and leave the oversized statement hats at home. This simple beret style hat is from famed milliner Stephen Jones but as this is an on trend shape expect more high street stores to follow. Note also that her hair is worn down but away from the face and her make-up and nails are natural, highlighting her natural beauty.

2) Stick to two colours: Pick a two tone colour palette with neutrals, here it was navy and ivory, but it could be black and ivory. Obviously never wear white to a wedding unless the dress code stipulates it. Or you could pick out a 'fashion' colour, like this seasons trend shade lilac, see above, for your accessories as long as it sits back to a neutral outfit ; navy or ivory will work well.

3) Choose functional fabrics: Here she's chosen to wear a dress by well established British designer Amanda Wakeley which is made from Ponte fabric, also known as Ponte de Roma, because of the way it is knitted together. Why Ponte? Well for several reasons, as it's a combination of polyester, Rayon and Spandex. it has some give and won't wrinkle or crease, meaning it looks good however long you've been sat down for.

Also as it's a double knit fabric it has a good weight and gives more coverage as it's thicker, so nothing will show through, especially when photographed. The spandex content means it's got some give so it will hold you in the right places and give you a streamlined look. However do wear it in your size or slightly smaller as baggy ponte is a definite no no, and won't be flattering at all.

It also wears well and is durable. Some items may say dry clean only but in the main it can be put on a warm wash and look as good as new. See Amanda Wakeley Ponte dresses at The Outnet below.

I'm sure there will be many more style tips that we can glean from Megan over the next few months and it will be interesting to see how her style evolves once she joins the Royal family proper. For now click on the links to shop and thanks for stopping by.

​I'd been looking for some welly boots for a while and love these J.Crew Camouflage pair, which are still available, see above. Whilst the Chelsea boot style of welly seems to be on trend I do think it's still tricky to find stylish wet weather footwear so I've put together my top ten wellies,from both designer and the more staple wellington brands, like Hunter and Aigle. Worth noting too is that Joules has a handy Welly Care Guide so no excuses if your boots look past their best!

So get splashing in those puddles, click on the links to shop and thanks for stopping by.

This year, more than any other, it feels that we aren't being too premature about being optimistic or hopeful that the sea change is upon us, and that our gender will continue to make positive strides on the path already well trodden. With Mother's day this weekend I'd also like to praise my mum for all that she did raising twin girls, especially impressing upon us that the world was our oyster and we could achieve our dreams, no matter what.

Back to todays outfit builder and the inspiration has come from the street style trend, seen at various fashion week shows, of layering coats and blazers. I've chosen items from the sale, now on, at The Outnet and their own brand Iris & Ink, both of which I love and often feature on my blog. That said I can't guarantee availability of stock or sizes, so if you want to achieve the look you must buy fast!

I've picked a bright red statement trench and tailored twill blazer from Maje for the outerwear layering, thrown in a bag and scarf from a favourite accessory designer of mine Anya Hindmarch, added that to basics from Iris & Ink, to create todays 'classic with a twist' outfit.